Postcards of California

On arrival in Los Angeles, collect your hire car and make your way to your hotel. Keep the jet lag at bay by stepping out to begin your sightseeing.

Start the day with a drive through Santa Monica and the famous beaches of Malibu. Continue up the coast to Santa Barbara, a beautiful seaside community with its famous mission and palm-lined walkways. The wharf and harbour areas are great to explore on foot or you can also rent a bike to see even more. Further north, discover a variety of classic beach towns dotting California's Central Coast (184 miles).

Travel further north and near San Luis Obispo join Highway 1, which is renowned as one of the US's most scenic roadways. Enjoy more stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific by driving on the 17-mile Scenic Drive, which passes through Pebble Beach Golf Course. Before the day ends, visit the quaint village of Carmel and charming Monterey, known for Cannery Row and the delightful otters who float and frolic amidst the sea kelp (267 miles).

Start your day early and continue across California's agricultural Central Valley before ascending the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Join Highway 49 and travel south through California Gold Country following in the footsteps of the thousands of gold seekers during the Gold Rush of 1849. Today, this area's streams and creeks are still considered some of the best for gold panning enthusiasts. Travel on further to Yosemite National Park (188 miles).

A full day to explore as you wish. Embracing some of the world's most spectacular scenery, Yosemite National Park boasts a wonderful collection of waterfalls, meadows and forests, including groves of giant sequoias. Marvel also at the sheer granite domes and cliffs that soar thousands of feet up from the valley floor. The massive glacial-shaped rock formations of El Capitan and Half Dome are the most famous landmarks of the park and keep a majestic watch over the valley.

Set your SatNav for the city on the bay. This scenic drive will lead you into the heart of San Francisco (167 miles).

A day to fit in as many sights as you can! We recommend a stroll around Fisherman's Wharf, or hiring a bike and pedalling across the Golden Gate Bridge. Alternatively, hop on one of the famous cable cars that trundle up and down the city hills or, perhaps take a ferry to Sausalito which gives you a unique perspective of the city skyline.

Take in more of the sights, such as bustling Union Square or quirky Lombard Street. Later, return your car at the airport where the tour ends with your onward journey.